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Inside: Tall, lanky runner who looks like a former quarterback - but doesn't run like one. Shifty runner with good vision through traffic. Lowers his pads to power through defenders when he smells the first down or goal line. Usually falls forward for the extra yard. Will stutter-step to avoid initial tackler in the hole. Secure with the ball inside.

Outside: Perfect for offense using zone or stretch plays. Lets blocks develop and picks out holes or cut-back lanes to explode through. Long strider who lacks lateral quickness, but will explode vertically once in the open field. Carries the ball in his right hand and doesn't switch when running left. Adequate at getting the corner within the offense, but doesn't change directions fast enough to reverse a play on his own.

Breaking tackles: Will go through arm tackles and runs with some lean, but has troubles keeping his feet (looks a bit out of control at times). Keeps feet moving after first contact at the second level, but struggles to push the pile in the middle. Must show his shoulder injury has not lessened his effectiveness as a power runner.

Blocking: Not very physical. Liability as a pass protector, although it's not for a lack of effort. Likes to hit defenders but is just not strong enough to anchor or sustain against them. Hesitates to pick up linebackers on plays where the pocket is moving. Doesn't pick up defenders to aid teammates on the second level.

Receiving: Well-practiced receiver who physically looks the part. Used on swing passes, circle routes and in the slot from motion. Snatches the ball with his hands, adjusting to low and high throws. Will hold the ball loosely when trying to make a move in the open field. Some elusiveness after the catch, but is better running north-south than east-west. May be tried as a kickoff returner at the next level.

Intangibles: No major character issues. Soft-spoken young man who is well-liked by coaches, teachers and teammates. Gives more credit to his linemen than himself. Successful rehab of knee and shoulder injuries will gives scouts reason to like his work ethic.

Strength: Starks has nice height, a good build and impressive overall size for a running back. Has the necessary speed to be a threat on the outside at the next level. Exhibits good acceleration and burst through the hole for a bigger back.

Weakness: Does not run with the power we’d like to see for his size. Starks has some straight line to him and isn’t going to shake a lot of tacklers. Durability is a concern after missing his senior year with injury.

My Grade:A-. Starks was a sure 3rd rounder with an outside shot into the 2nd round prior to his shoulder injury. Hopefully the shoulder won't bug him much in the pros and take away what made him such a productive collegiate back. If he can pick up defenders in pass protection, he could immediately battle Brandon Jackson as a 3rd down back. His 127 career receptions in 3 years shows he can definitely be a reliable outlet from the backfield

General Consensus on the forum: There's some very mixed opinions on this selection. While most recognized that Starks is talented, some would have preferred a pick at a position of need (CB, OLB) or a player that most closely fits the mold of a "scatback" who could double as a returner.

Last edited by RashaanSalaami on Sat Apr 24, 2010 7:06 pm; edited 7 times in total

Heard of him, never watched. Sounds like the bruiser type everyone was clamoring for, without the big-name.

I'm not real excited at this or anything because I'm not exactly sure what's on our mind with this one, but nonetheless, we'll probably get a more clear idea of what his role with us will be when we see him play. Interesting pick.